Pakistan Business Council welcomes Budget 2026-27 as a step toward economic stabilisation

The Pakistan Business Council welcomed several growth-oriented measures in the Federal Budget 2026-27 on Friday, describing them as clear signals that sustainable, inclusive economic growth has become a government priority.

The council praised progress on the super tax, relief for the salaried class, and measures reducing the tax burden on export proceeds. It cautioned, however, that these steps should be seen as a starting point rather than the finish line.

What did the PBC say about the budget's growth measures?

PBC Chairperson Dr. Zeelaf Munir said the budget reflects a shift toward sustainable economic growth, which she described as encouraging for businesses and investors.

She said the relief measures announced, despite limited fiscal space, indicate an inclusive effort to support productive economic activity across all segments of society. "Consistency of policy is the key," she added.

PBC Chief Executive Javed Kureishi said the budget sends an important signal that the government is listening to stakeholders in Pakistan's formal economy.

He welcomed movement on the super tax, relief for the salaried class, and reduced withholding taxes on export proceeds, noting that these were issues PBC had consistently raised with policymakers.

Kureishi specifically acknowledged the prime minister's personal commitment and the finance team's work in delivering the budget.

What structural reforms did the PBC call for beyond the budget?

The council urged the government to broaden the tax base by bringing untaxed and undertaxed sectors into the formal economy, to reduce the burden on compliant taxpayers.

It also called for accelerated energy sector reforms to bring industrial energy costs closer to regional benchmarks and faster privatisation of loss-making state-owned enterprises. The PBC pressed for a three-year reform framework to give businesses the certainty needed to plan, invest, and grow.

What did the PBC say about the government-business relationship?

The council acknowledged the constructive dialogue between government and the private sector in the lead-up to the budget, describing it as a reflection of shared commitment to long-term prosperity.

It said investor confidence will depend on consistency, predictability, and effective implementation beyond a single budget cycle. The PBC said it looks forward to continuing engagement with policymakers to advance Pakistan's economic objectives.